In a recent development, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has revised its policy on biometric collection for those seeking Canadian Permanent Residence (PR). As of                        June 14, 2023,  a significant change has been implemented: all individuals applying for PR must now submit biometrics, regardless of whether they have previously provided them with a temporary residence permit.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, IRCC temporarily suspended the need for PR applicants to resubmit biometrics if they had done so within the previous 10 years alongside a temporary resident application. However, with the easing of pandemic restrictions, IRCC is reverting to pre-pandemic procedures for PR applications.

In September 2020, recognizing the challenges posed by temporary closures of Visa Application Centres (VACs), IRCC allowed newcomers to apply for PR if they had submitted biometrics in the past decade. Now, with the reduction of application backlogs and the return to full operational capacity, IRCC is resuming regular processes with mandatory biometrics submission for all PR applicants.

As clarified by an IRCC official, "The reuse of biometrics for a PR application was a temporary measure introduced in a pandemic situation. Since the pandemic is now over, we are resuming our regular process which requires applicants to provide their biometrics in support of any PR applications being made, regardless of previous biometrics being valid."

It is important to note that these changes specifically apply to individuals applying for PR and do not affect those applying for temporary resident status under work, visitor, or study visas. Additionally, temporary residents seeking an extension are exempt from the biometrics resubmission requirement.

Understanding Biometrics:

Biometrics, encompassing fingerprints and facial photographs, are mandatory for all immigration applications, aiming to enhance security and safeguard the integrity of the immigration system. The fee for submitting biometrics is currently $85CAD. This non-invasive identification method is crucial for identity verification and aligns with global efforts to combat identity fraud.

Certain categories of applicants are exempt from providing biometrics for travel to Canada, including Canadian citizens, children under 14, and heads of state and government officials. Furthermore, U.S. visa holders transiting through Canada and asylum claimants and applicants over the age of 79 are among those not required to submit biometrics.

In conclusion, the mandatory biometrics submission for Canadian Permanent Residence applicants underscores IRCC's commitment to ensuring a secure and streamlined immigration process. As applicants navigate these changes, they contribute to the continued enhancement of Canada's immigration system.

Contact Zane Immigration Inc. for more details regarding Biometric requirements.